Lake Hendricks Norwegian Colony of 1873
The first settlers at Lake Hendricks were 31 Norwegians, arriving July 14, 1873, with 11 covered wagons and 30 cattle. On May 14, 1873 they left Houston County, Minn., and Allamakee and Winneshiek . . . — — Map (db m179811) HM
Lake Hendricks State Park
This lake was named for Thomas A. Hendricks (1819-1885), Commissioner of the General Land Office, 1855-59, at which time the state boundary was surveyed and the lake named. Hendricks was a Member of Congress, 1851-55; . . . — — Map (db m184234) HM
In Memory of All American Veterans
This memorial honors all American veterans who, although separated by generations, shared a common, undeniable goal - to valiantly protect our country's freedoms.
The memories of these American . . . — — Map (db m251512) WM
During the Moon of the Harvest (August) in 1773 a band of Sioux were camped on the shore of this lake. We-Wa-Ke, fairest maiden in the camp had given her heart to a brave young warrior, Big Eagle, whose courage on the hunt and in battle far . . . — — Map (db m180984) HM
Chief Bluedog was an active participant in the 1862 Dakota-United States War in Minnesota. After the Dakota were removed by an act of Congress in 1863 he led the Tiospaye first to Canada and then here to the Lake Traverse Reservation after the . . . — — Map (db m239968) HM
Fire towers like this were once erected all across the country to help spot wildfires before they got out of control. This tower is 110 feet tall with 133 steps to the top-not for the faint of heart!
Into the Trees
As you climb to . . . — — Map (db m125278) HM
The prairie has been changing for millions of years. Grasses have grown, soil has built up, rocks have eroded, and hillsides have fallen. Rain has been followed by drought, until the rain has returned. Fire would turn the land black, but soon . . . — — Map (db m125352) HM
Waubay National Wildlife Refuge is in the Prairie Pothole Region-a region of the northern Great Plains where shallow wetlands, or potholes, are scattered about the prairie. About 10,000 years ago, glaciers scoured the landscape and gouged out . . . — — Map (db m125281) HM
In 1935, when Waubay National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) was established, the country was in the midst of the Great Depression and a severe drought. President Franklin D. Roosevelt attacked the loss of jobs and the threat to natural resources by . . . — — Map (db m125277) HM
From hunting club to Refuge
What was once a hunting camp is now a refuge for waterfowl and other migratory birds. Waubay National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) was established in 1935 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in response to record low . . . — — Map (db m125350) HM
From hunting club to Refuge
What was once a hunting camp is now a refuge for waterfowl and other migratory birds. Waubay National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) was established in 1935 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in response to record low . . . — — Map (db m125355) HM
Saving ducks by saving stamps
To help restore waterfowl populations that had been wiped out by hunting and drought, Congress passed the migratory Bird Hunting Stamp Act in 1934. Under the Act, hunters purchase an annual Federal Duck . . . — — Map (db m125353) HM
The President of the United Sates in the name of The Congress takes pleasure in presenting the Congressional Medal of Honor toRank and organization: Captain, U. S. Army, 15th Infantry, 3rd Infantry . . . — — Map (db m249297) HM WM
Let this tablet bear witness to future generations that on July 19, 2014, the descendants of Michael Hoffmann and Catherine Fasbender gathered here to honor their European ancestors who crossed the American frontier in the 19th century with . . . — — Map (db m305575) HM
Erected by the citizens of Estelline and vicinity in recognition of the patriotism shown by all who answered our country's call in the World War. 1917 1919 — — Map (db m305580) WM
Dedicated in honor and memory of the men and women of the Estelline community and area who served their country in time of war and during peace. ★★★ Because of their sacrifice, we have our freedom, may God bless our beloved . . . — — Map (db m256024) WM
This prairie schooner is a typical wagon that pioneers would have used in the late 1800s. It was a "barn find" in Iowa and was restored by the Hansen Wheel and Wagon Shop in Letcher, SD. Based on the wagon's wear and tear, it was most likely only . . . — — Map (db m209688) HM
Next to Fuller's Hardware was Bradley's Drugstore, run by young George Bradley and his wife, Hattie. Charles Ingalls would often step across the street to exchange stories of the day, tell jokes and maybe play a game of checkers.
George . . . — — Map (db m209679) HM
The Brewster School, also known as the Bouchie School, was located about twelve miles southwest of De Smet in an abandoned claim shanty. The shanty had thickness boards with no battens, so snow would blow through. There were six seats with a desk, a . . . — — Map (db m209687) HM
This is the homestead site of Charles and Caroline Ingalls
and their daughters Mary, Laura, Carrie and Grace
In four of her Little House series of stories of pioneering by the Ingalls and Wilder families, Laura Ingalls Wilder, . . . — — Map (db m209488) HM
As Laura sat sewing, she looked out across Main Street at the Mead Hotel, Wilder Feed Store and Harthorn's Grocery. Clancy's store was across the street in the middle of the northeast side of Main Street.
A census of 1880 does not mention Mr. . . . — — Map (db m209684) HM
Edward H. Couse purchased this lot and the original store building on it from Charles P. Ingalls. By 1885 Couse had succeeded well enough with his hardware business to expand his operation and replace his original wood framed building with a . . . — — Map (db m123916) HM
De Smet Forest Half mile South East of De Smet
De Smet Forest was established by the South Dakota Fish, Game and Parks Department in 1946 and is one of hundreds of small roadside parks now existent or planned along South Dakota highways. At . . . — — Map (db m123917) HM
As a lasting tribute to the memory of Father Pierre Jean De Smet of the Society of Jesus, who for over thirty years offered his life in the service of the Indian people traveling far beyond the Rocky Mountains and sharing with them his deep love of . . . — — Map (db m182757) HM
The first public school of De Smet was built in 1880 by the citizens. They not only furnished the materials but actually did the work. The school house was erected at the corner of Loftus Avenue and Second Street. In later years, it was moved to . . . — — Map (db m209686) HM
Only the pioneers could recall the building that stood at the corner of Calumet Avenue and Third Street. The building dates back to 1880, the first year the town was settled. John A. Owen, pioneer attorney, constructed the building.
John Owen . . . — — Map (db m209678) HM
The Kingsbury County Bank, or Ruth Bank, was organized in 1880 by A. Ruth and Thomas Ruth. In December 1885 it was incorporated under the territorial laws with an authorized capital of $200,000.
Born on March 5, 1844 in Carmichael, . . . — — Map (db m209683) HM
Kingsbury County was created and organized on February 2, 1880. It was named for George W. and T. A. Kingsbury, prominent brothers in territorial affairs.
De Smet was platted in 1880. On November 2, of that year, De Smet was chosen as the county . . . — — Map (db m123959) HM
The Laura Ingalls Wilder Memorial Society is happy to welcome your interest in the "Little House" books.
Since 1957, our organization has been busy with the preservation of the Ingalls-Wilder sites and the hosting of Laura's readers. Join us . . . — — Map (db m182747) HM
In the early years of De Smet this building served S.B. Owen as a shoe-making shop and residence for his family. Mrs. Owen was a tailor by trade and taught suit-making to at least one of her children, V.S.L. Owen. He was often mentioned in the files . . . — — Map (db m209682) HM
Thomas P. Powers located his tailor shop in the building between the Loftus Store and Tinkham Furniture. In August of 1886, he sold his business and stock of clothing to Hamilton and Flaata. The following Tuesday night he started for Ireland, his . . . — — Map (db m209681) HM
Erected
in memory of Christian pioneers
and founders of Lake Henry
community and Church
1878 1954
And this stone, which I have set for a pillar, shall be God's houseGen. 28:22
whosoever thou art, enter on this ground with reverence . . . — — Map (db m209487) HM
Beginning in 1883, worship in homes of German immigrant settlers
Organized July 13, 1895
Founding Pastor J. Hansen
Pioneer Members
August Albrecht
Carl Albrecht
Ferdinand L. Albrecht
William Albrecht
Herman Eick
Karl . . . — — Map (db m182754) HM
Organized as Emmanuel in 1882
Reorganized as St. Paul
April 17, 1898
Located on present church site
O. I. Satre, Founding Pastor
Charter Members
O. I. Satre
Karel Dahl
B. Christopherson
C. Bergerson
P. A. Ranklev . . . — — Map (db m182752) HM
Originally Lake Thompson Ev. Lutheran
Organized March 30, 1882
6½ miles S.E. of DeSmet
O. I. Satre, Founding Pastor
Charter Members
John Ekse · Knudt Simonson
Ove Johnson · Ole Berqvan
O. S. Sorsdal · Iver Amundson
Iver . . . — — Map (db m182749) HM
The Surveyors' House is the oldest building in De Smet, built a year before there was even a town. It was built around 1879 as a railroad company house. Laura Ingalls Wilder wrote in her Little House books of living in this home the first . . . — — Map (db m209685) HM
The original Loftus Store still stands today and was one of the first businesses on Main Street in 1880. Throughout his life as a merchant, Mr. Loftus carried the slogan "The Quality Store" and became known for the quality of goods on the shelves. . . . — — Map (db m209680) HM
The Kingsbury Abstract Company was formed in 1887, with J.C. Gibson, A.W. Miller, C.L. Dawley, Al Thomas and A.N. Waters as members. The company built this building in 1888-89.
Through the years the building has housed many offices, including . . . — — Map (db m123969) HM
On the low hill immediately west of this spot stood the homestead claim shanty of Almanzo and Laura Ingalls Wilder. Mrs. Wilder (1867-1957) is known all over the world as the author of the "Little House" books, a series of autobiographical accounts . . . — — Map (db m182759) HM
"Sat. Nov. 25, 1865. Ft. Wadsworth. Arrived at 3 p.m. Received my pay, paid my debts and have $20 left." As the assistant to the commanding officer, the adjutant kept track of the men who were on furlough, in the hospital or on field . . . — — Map (db m162309) HM
Wed. Oct. 25, 1865. Our company is ordered to Fort Wadsworth-- bad luck to them! Men feel badly about being ordered to Wadsworth--it seems as though it was going out of the world again. But it is a soldier's duty to obey orders.
Andrew . . . — — Map (db m101242) HM
Wed. Oct. 25, 1865. Our company is ordered to Fort Wadsworth-- bad luck to them! Men feel badly about being ordered to Wadsworth--it seems as though it was going out of the world again. But it is a soldier's duty to obey . . . — — Map (db m162131) HM
"Wed. Oct 22, 1865. Fifteen men armed two stockades." Fort Wadsworth (Fort Sisseton) was surrounded on three sides by water and situated on a hill. These were the fort's natural defenses. Structural defense systems consisted of . . . — — Map (db m162305) HM
Thurs. Dec. 7, 1865. Major Rose called all the companies together today, gave them a talking to and much good advice. There has been quite a spirit of unrest among the men. The men were anxious to return to civil life.
This structure was . . . — — Map (db m162304) HM
"Wed. Jan. 3, 1866. Have been to work all day at headquarters making out monthly returns for December 1865. Took a list of clothing the boys wanted to draw for January."
The Commissary Sergeants earned a wage of $21.00 per month. Their . . . — — Map (db m197924) HM
One of the doctor's duties was to record mammal sightings. In 1869, elk, buffalo, antelope, grey wolf, and black bear were recorded. The antelope is the only animal still sighted in this region.
Due to dwindling numbers, an order was . . . — — Map (db m101238) HM
Memorandum: Dick Wilson enlisted in our squad from S. Paul in October 1863. He was a very bad case. His home has been the guard house ever since he enlisted. He broke out and deserted the 13th of February. He was caught and brought back. Again he . . . — — Map (db m101229) HM
Sun. Nov. 26, 1865. Doc and Shep up all night gambling. Blowers and Peterson each made $25 tonight playing "Honest-John."
During the Roaring Twenties, the Fort was leased for use as a hunting lodge. The hospital became the club room and . . . — — Map (db m162132) HM
"Fri. Nov. 17. Doc and Tom Holdship arrived from St. Paul via Ridgely. Doc looks well. Holdship has immense whiskers. Drew up a list of clothing needed by men."
Dampness from living in the barracks, harsh weather conditions and . . . — — Map (db m162299) HM
Wed. Jan. 3, 1866. We are mighty anxious to get mail. Nothing will make soldiers homesick so quick as not receiving letters from families or friends.
Filling the countless hours proved to be a soldier's greatest challenge. According to . . . — — Map (db m162136) HM
"Tues. Jan 2. [1866] Finished reading a good novel titled the 'Love Test.' It's a splendid story. C. O. Frenchies' writing school is in full blast tonight in the kitchen. About 40 of the boys are attending. It is a good thing--makes the evening . . . — — Map (db m162296) HM
Mon. Dec. 4, 1865. Captain took all the ammunition over to the magazine and read the army regulations to the men.
The U.S. Springfield and the British-made Enfield were the two basic firearms of the Civil War period. Both muzzleloaders . . . — — Map (db m162310) HM
Sun. Nov. 12, 1865. The fort has greatly improved since we were here a year ago. Stone quarters nearly completed for us to go into.
Living conditions at the Fort were crude. Wood bunks were furnished with wool blankets and mattresses . . . — — Map (db m101233) HM
"Thursday, Jan. 18. Lt. Briley has taken command of the company. He has been relieved from duty at inspection-except at his post. He was over to Roll Call this morning but nobody was up-when Sgt. Knight politely told him that we . . . — — Map (db m162308) HM
Tues. Nov. 14, 1865. Took the best bath I could and put on clean clothes, first time in nearly three weeks. We indulged in a stag dance this evening.
Soldiers spent much of their off duty time playing chess, checkers and card games. . . . — — Map (db m101231) HM
“Tues. Dec. 12, 1865. Very cold-very. My pony broke through the ice while I was watering him and he nearly perished with cold before I could get him back to the stable.”
During the winter of 1864, there was an urgent need to . . . — — Map (db m162140) HM
You are entering
Roberts County
South Dakota
Long the home of Sisseton, Wahpeton & Cuthead Yanktonaise Sioux, it became part of Deuel & Cheyenne Counties in 1862; Deuel extending N to 46th parallel (4 miles N) in 1872. The Reservation . . . — — Map (db m185145) HM
In Honor of Those Who Gave Their Lives
World War I & World War II
Edward H. Robertson Post 76
Gordon Brubakken
Godfrey Halverson
Donald Hill
Richard Hilliard
Louis Labelle
Conrad Dickinson
Selmer Langager
Knute Myhren . . . — — Map (db m123358) WM
Noted Indian orator, born at Lac Qui Parle. After conversion to Christianity, he was President of the Hazelwood Republic. He participated in rescue of Abbie Gardner in 1857 from hostiles on James River (near Redfield). During War of Outbreak in . . . — — Map (db m185158) HM
Dedicated to the men and women of the United States of America who served in the Armed Forces to help further the cause of freedom in the world
Honor the dead by helping the living — — Map (db m185161) WM
Has been designated a
Registered
Natural Landmark
Under the Provisions of the
Historic Sites Act of August 21, 1955
This site Possesses Exceptional Value
In illustrating the Natural
History of the United States
U.S. . . . — — Map (db m123355) HM
A grove of tall, stately pine trees two miles north of this marker whisper the tale of two Dakota Indian brothers, Clarence and Joseph Grey, who died in an early winter snowstorm in November 1958, while trapping along the coteau. Their bodies were . . . — — Map (db m185162) HM
The Dakota winter of 1937 stretched out too long for farm boys Charles Almos and Clayton Week. They lived with their parents on the Coteau des Prairies eight and ten miles west of Sisseton. During their high school years, the boys shared room and . . . — — Map (db m185164) HM
On a pleasant winter day, January 6, 1903, Knut Throndson, an 1892 homesteader from Hellingdal, Norway, decided to visit his closest neighbors, Tobias and Bertha Herigstad, who lived less than a quarter mile east of this spot. Knut's wife, Caroline, . . . — — Map (db m185163) HM
You are standing on top of the Coteau des Prairies (Hills of the Prairies) overlooking the rich Whetstone Valley. This landscape was carved out some 20,000 years ago by a massive glacier which extended approximately 2,000 feet above where you now . . . — — Map (db m91421) HM
